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    HELP! I have NO references to put down on my application!

    enAugust 14, 2024
    What topics does the Interview Boss podcast cover?
    How did Laurie benefit from the Interview Boss podcast?
    Why is maintaining professionalism important when leaving a job?
    What should you do with past contacts before job applications?
    How can one ensure positive references from previous employers?

    Podcast Summary

    • Interview Boss podcastThe Interview Boss podcast, started in 2021, provides valuable information for job seekers at various stages, helping listeners land new roles and achieve fulfilling careers.

      The Interview Boss podcast, which started in 2021, offers a wealth of information for job seekers, with episodes categorized by job application stages and situations. For instance, there are episodes on writing resumes and cover letters, as well as preparing for interviews and starting a new job. The podcast has made a significant impact on listeners, such as Laurie, a 24-year-old job seeker who was laid off from her long-term job and felt lost until she discovered the podcast. Through listening and applying the advice, Laurie landed a new role. The podcast's impact shows that no matter the length of time spent in a job, everyone deserves a fulfilling career, and the Interview Boss team is dedicated to helping listeners achieve that goal.

    • Job references during tough timesReach out to past employers for references, even during tough times. Their opinion reflects past performance, not entire career or worth as a person. Consider investing in interview coaching or self-study resources.

      Even during challenging times like job loss or lack of references, it's essential to maintain a positive perspective and focus on the opportunities for growth. Laurie's story highlights the importance of reaching out to past employers for references, even if you haven't kept in touch. It's okay to come out of the blue and ask for their support. Remember, their opinion of you as a professional is a reflection of your past performance with them, not a reflection of your entire career or worth as a person. Additionally, consider investing in interview coaching or self-study resources to enhance your interview skills and confidence. Keep in mind that setbacks are temporary, and every experience, good or bad, brings us closer to our next opportunity.

    • Job referencesVerify references will speak positively about you before sharing their contact info, use a friendly and professional tone, and consider asking someone else if hesitant or unable to provide a positive reference

      When reaching out to past contacts for job references, it's important to initiate the conversation and verify they would speak positively about you. Assuming they would have nothing negative to say is not enough. Reach out with a clear request for them to be your reference and ask what they would say. Remember, assuming makes "an ass out of you and me." Use a friendly and professional tone, and be prepared for any response. If they seem hesitant or unable to provide a positive reference, consider asking someone else. It's better to know early on rather than risk damaging your reputation with potential employers. Additionally, checking in with past contacts can also be an opportunity to reconnect and build professional relationships for future opportunities.

    • Job ReferencesHaving strong, relevant references is crucial during job applications. Be creative if you can't find a direct manager or colleague, and be upfront about any employment instability.

      Providing clear and honest references is crucial during a job application process. The people you list as references can significantly impact your credibility and reliability in the eyes of potential employers. Therefore, it's essential to have strong, relevant references who can vouch for your skills and work ethic. If you're having trouble finding a direct manager or colleague to serve as a reference, be creative and think outside the box. You can consider reaching out to family members, babysitting clients, or other colleagues with whom you've had a positive working relationship. Companies are more likely to be flexible if you have one strong, relevant reference, even if your employment history has been inconsistent. If you've had a less-than-ideal employment history, it's important to be upfront and honest about it in your application. Explain any circumstances that led to job instability or unreliability, and provide references who can speak to your growth and improvement since then. Ultimately, the key is to present a consistent and authentic story of yourself throughout the application process, from your resume and cover letter to your references. By doing so, you'll increase your chances of making a positive impression on potential employers and securing the job you want.

    • Job departure impactLeaving a job professionally is crucial for future career prospects as it ensures positive references and maintains respect from employers and colleagues.

      The way you leave a job can significantly impact your future career prospects. It's important to consider the potential consequences of burning bridges and not having references, even if you've had negative experiences at a previous job. While it's understandable to want to move on from a toxic work environment, it's crucial to maintain professionalism and give proper notice when leaving a job. This not only shows respect for your employer and colleagues but also ensures that you have positive references for future job applications. If you're unsure about your notice period or find it difficult to focus during your last weeks at a job, it's worth asking your employer for flexibility or finishing up earlier. Remember, people will remember the way you left, and it can color the rest of your experience with them.

    • Employment verification referencesFactual employment references, such as those providing employment dates and reasons for leaving, can help alleviate concerns for potential employers and ensure transparency in the hiring process, even when traditional references are unavailable.

      While it may be more challenging to obtain traditional references during a job application process, having written confirmation of employment dates and reasons for leaving from previous employers can help alleviate concerns for potential employers. This type of reference is factual and can confirm employment history without allowing for further questioning. It's essential in situations where traditional references may not be available or where an employer has terminated an employee for serious reasons. Although it doesn't provide insight into an applicant's skills or work performance, it can help eliminate red flags and ensure transparency in the hiring process. Additionally, applicants can provide fake contact information for reference requests on forms if it's unavoidable, but it's always best to provide genuine references when possible.

    • Job ReferencesIf lacking traditional references, be proactive and obtain new ones through unpaid work, volunteering, or small paid gigs to show initiative and honesty to potential employers.

      During a job application process, if you don't have traditional references available, it doesn't mean you should skip providing any contact information. Instead, consider it a pause button, not an escape. Come up with a plan to obtain new references. This could include unpaid work experience, volunteering, or even small paid gigs. The key is to be proactive and transparent about your situation. If you're asked for references and can't provide them, don't hide it. Instead, explain your situation and provide alternative contacts. This shows your initiative and honesty, which are valuable qualities to potential employers. Remember, the goal is to remove any chance of them jumping to conclusions or making assumptions. Instead, give them all the facts and let them make an informed decision. So, if you find yourself in a situation where you don't have traditional references, don't panic. Instead, make a plan and be proactive. It may take some effort, but the payoff could be worth it.

    • Professional referencesCollect and maintain professional references throughout your career for future job applications, as they can significantly impact your career prospects.

      Maintaining and building professional references is a lifelong pursuit. Volunteering for events or reaching out to past employers can help secure valuable references for current and future job applications. References are essential and can significantly impact your career prospects. Even when you're employed, it's important to consider who could potentially vouch for your skills and work ethic in case of future job searches. So, collect those references like Pokemon, and never stop adding to your collection. Remember, references are an essential tool for your career journey, and they can continue to benefit you throughout your professional life.

    Recent Episodes from Interview Boss

    Why am I being rejected on the weekend or at 2am?!

    Why am I being rejected on the weekend or at 2am?!

    We’ve had a few questions from our listeners about a curious phenomenon. They receive the standard ‘unsuccessful application’ email, but at REALLY strange times - some are coming through on the weekend, way after hours, or even at 2am?!

    In this week’s episode, Emma and Sarah put their investigator hats on and get the scoop on why your rejection emails are coming through that way. Is it an automated rejection? Is it a nocturnal recruiter somewhere? Tune in to find out!

    🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Angela “Hello Emma & Sarah!I wanted to share some exciting news with you. After months of interview rounds, I will be starting my new job next week! Thanks to your invaluable advice, I was able to secure a position with a $38k increase in my base salary and a total compensation increase of $51k. Your podcast has been a fantastic companion throughout my job search journey. I listened to your "Exit Interview Do's and Don'ts" episode this morning before giving my exit interview, and it was incredibly helpful.  The "Listen to This" episodes have been particularly impactful. I made it a point to listen to "Listen to This RIGHT Before Your Interview" before each interview I attended (and there were many!), and it always helped to boost my confidence and calm my nerves. I truly love your podcast and will enthusiastically recommend it to anyone on the job hunt. Thank you for everything you do!”

    📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy

    ☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss

    📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 

    💌  Follow us on Instagram

    💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resources

    www.interviewboss.com.au

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    The inside scoop on assessment centres - including cringey ice breakers!

    The inside scoop on assessment centres - including cringey ice breakers!

    You’ve applied for a job, and you’ve landed an interview - BUT you’ve found out you won’t be the only candidate in the room, you're headed to an assessment centre! Employers use these a lot to save time OR when they're hiring in bulk, especially for grad programs.

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    We discuss what an employer is looking for and share some helpful tips to do yourself justice in the group environment.

    🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Sophie who bought us 2 coffees!

    "“Dear Emma & Sarah, thank you so much for putting this podcast out into the world! I’ve been unhappy in my job for quite a while but was able to keep my role and move down to Melbourne from Brisbane 4 months ago which was great for job security, but I was still ready for a change. After going on a job applying rampage, the rejection emails started flowing in and it was a humbling experience to say the least as all my previous roles I’d gotten in Brisbane were through making connections and my network. But now being in Melbourne I felt like a small fish in a much bigger pond with no way to get my foot in the door. I finally got a video screening call which went well and then only had a few days to prepare before an in-person interview. I was very nervous leading up to it as I hadn’t been for an interview in 2 years and felt very out of practice. Luckily, I went to a wine bar with a friend who recommended your podcast. I binge-listened to your interview episodes which helped me so much with my prep and helped me focus on my best bits. I walked out of the first interview feeling like I nailed it and got the call the next day to say that I’d progressed to the second and final interview. Here we go again. After listening to you ladies some more (and even having you in my ears right up until I walked in the door), I also felt confident coming out of the second interview and am so happy to share that I got the role. It’s a pay increase and at a company that I think will really align with my values. I start next month. Thank you so much and keep putting out this fantastic, practical and helpful content.”

    🎧 Mentioned in this episode: Standing out from the crowd in a group interview

    📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy

    ☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss

    📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 

    💌  Follow us on Instagram

    💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resources

    www.interviewboss.com.au

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    Why showing TOO much enthusiasm in an interview can be a BAD thing!

    Why showing TOO much enthusiasm in an interview can be a BAD thing!

    We always tell people starting out in their careers 'what you lack in experience you can make up for with enthusiasm,' BUT this golden rule does have caveats!

    This week's episode is dedicated to listener Kirby, who was told he came off 'too excited' in the interview after finding out he was unsuccessful.

    We unpack why extreme enthusiasm could make a prospective employer potentially concerned that you aren't forming a realistic view of the job.

    Disclaimer: This feedback should be taken with a grain of salt. You should never change your entire approach based on one piece of feedback and we certainly don't want anyone intentionally dulling their sparkle!

    🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Rachel who bought us 3 coffees!

    "I just had to share this story with you because I could not have gotten through this wild second round interview without your advice. I had prepared stories that I could mould to any question. I accepted the water. I accepted the coffee (I had drinks double parked like I was Friday night clubbing). I was clenching those butt cheeks like a pro. I’d stalked everyone on that interview panel like a serial killer. If the cleaner had got in the lift with me, I’d have smiled, asked how her kids were and known their names. My outfit was smart, but not desperate. I arrived 10mins early but no earlier. I greeted the security guard like a long lost pal. I had my notebook. My questions were prepped and on point. I was ready. The interview was in two parts – the first with my manager and a team member – which included a test case scenario. I did the deep breathing. I took my time. I smashed it. They were smiling and nodding and talking in the positive give-aways “YOU would be reporting to….”. I was feeling good. The second part of the interview was with HR who wanted to see if I was a “good fit”. I had no idea if she was going to come in with a tape measure and a snap on plastic glove - I never got to that podcast. But I’d researched the company values – I knew them. I’d made up an acronym to remember them (CRAPPER – Customer focused, Responsibility, Achievement, Perseverance, Preparation, Enthusiasm, Reward). What I wasn’t prepared for was to be asked for a “tell me a time when…” for EVERY SINGLE VALUE. Well, I ran out of stories. I think Agatha Christie would have struggled with this one. I swear if she’d have asked me anymore "tell me a time when" scenarios, Goldilocks and the three bears would have rocked up somewhere in my career history to demonstrate how enthusiastic I am about porridge. 45 MINUTES this went on, whilst she furiously scribbled down page after page of notes. I was starting to wilt. I lost my thread but thanks to your advice, I stopped, asked her to repeat the question and got right back on point. When it was finally over, I felt like I’d been through a blender. I left there bewildered - having no idea at all how it went. I’ve listened to the “Listen to this right after your interview” podcast and I know I can’t do anymore than I’ve done. Feedback? Apparently, they loved me. Me? I'm wondering if I can sell my soul to this cult and if they offer me the job whether I’ll need to have CRAPPER tattoo’d on my tightly clenched butt cheek. I am still pressing forward, applying for jobs, not waiting for a response on this one. Its all great practice, I'm learning a skill, and the better I get, I know in the end something will come up. Thank you both for helping me through what has been a really stressful time, you guys are the best."

    🎧 Mentioned in this episode - the mindset activity at the end of this ep

    📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy <a href="https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

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    HELP! I have NO references to put down on my application!

    HELP! I have NO references to put down on my application!

    You've made it to the final step in the recruitment process - you might be the final candidate OR you might still be up against someone else. But what happens when you have no suitable people to put down as a reference?

    In this week's episode Emma and Sarah answer a conundrum sent in by a listener who feels like they have no options for references due to bouncing between jobs and industries and not staying in touch with former employers.

    We share our tips for hitting up old bosses for references, explain why requesting a statement of service can be a good plan B and brainstorm ideas on how you can begin to secure some solid references - because this problem isn't going to go away on it's own!

    🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to to Lori who bought us 5 coffees!

    "Emma and Sarah, words cannot express how much I appreciate you both and the impact you made on me landing my new job. I was laid off from my job after working for the same company for 27 years. While I stayed positive and hopeful that I would eventually find a great role, my confidence (in all areas of my life) plummeted! If the company I dedicated so much of myself did not choose me, who would?! I listened to your podcasts every time I went to the gym (which made me more eager to go! win!) and took away something from every episode. It was the "best bits" exercise that turned everything around for me. After writing all of them down and connecting them to skills and qualifications so I could speak to them in interviews, I realised I DO have value to bring to an organisation. My next screening interviews progressed to seconds, thirds, fourths, and ultimately- offers! I am so excited to start my new role on August 5th and I owe a lot of it to both of you! Thank you!”

    🎧 Listen to our other episodes on references here:

    https://player.captivate.fm/episode/c3d9051d-a9d9-49ef-9442-32a373b30652/

    https://player.captivate.fm/episode/8ef90c99-2e4a-4fb0-b971-4bc71420cfb6/

    📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy

    ☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss

    📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 

    💌  Follow us on Instagram

    💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resources

    www.interviewboss.com.au

    Interview Boss
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    Global career moves: Is working abroad right for you?

    Global career moves: Is working abroad right for you?

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    🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Lewis who bought us 5 coffees!

    Hi Emma and Sarah. I wanted to say thank you for all your help, listening to the podcast has changed my outlook on the job search and has given me the motivation to get through a tough period in my career. I came across your podcast while I was interviewing for a new role in a small tech start-up, after listening to most of your episodes I nailed the interview and was offered what I thought was my dream job. However, things did not turn out how I expected and I ended up in a very toxic work environment which was starting to affect my health. After 6 months of working there, I started listening to the podcast again on my commute which gave me the confidence in myself to resign with no job lined up. After a bit of stressing and panic, I ended up with interviews for two companies. Listening to the podcast on the way to the interview makes me feel like I have a support team backing me. I went into the interview confident and explained honestly why I left my previous role and what I was looking for in my career. I couldn't believe it when I was offered both positions within two weeks of resigning from my previous job! After careful consideration, I went with the company and project that aligned more closely with my personal values. I can't thank you enough for your advice, insight and Aussie humour. I tell everyone I know to have a listen. Thank you so much. Lewis. (Listening all the way from Scotland)

    🎧 Episode about moving to a new city: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/87daf688-8f7f-484d-9511-44dcb317298b

    📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy

    ☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss

    📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 

    💌  Follow us on Instagram

    💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resources

    www.interviewboss.com.au

    Interview Boss
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    When your interview example doesn't do you justice...leaning on hypothetical situations

    When your interview example doesn't do you justice...leaning on hypothetical situations

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    Disclaimer: Real examples come first! You shouldn't use hypotheticals in response to every question.

    🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Darcy who bought us 5 coffees!

    "Emma and Sarah, I have been waiting to share good news with you since I started listening a few months back - and here it is! I was devastated when I lost my job last summer. I was struggling to figure out how to move forward with my career, feeling like I would never find my confidence or a job I was proud of again. After nearly 9 months of the brutal job search cycle, I had been interviewed for 3 different roles, but I still wasn't getting any job offers. I found your podcast and it changed everything! The things that flipped the script for me were: 1) Best Bits: It sounds so simple, but controlling the narrative on my career story was hands down the best advice I've ever heard about interviewing! 2) Just SAYING the thing: I was dancing around the reason I left the previous employer because I was so traumatized by it. I thought that if they wanted to know about it, the interviewer(s) would ask outright! Your episode on how to talk about the thing that you're worried about made such a big difference. 3) Preparing for the interview: So many things in this bucket. Stopping the interview prep the day before, getting a good pep talk from a friend, listening to your pep talk episode, preparing genuine questions to ask the interviewer... Just so many incredible suggestions! I finally felt like I was not only qualified, but truly the best candidate for this job! I applied for a job I really was excited about, which would take me out of the private sector I worked in and into a role with a state government agency. I went through multiple rounds of panel interviews, both over the phone and in person. I followed your advice on the thank you emails - not trying to sell myself, but just building on the connections I made with each interviewer. I am so thankful to you both because without your podcast, I may not have been selected as the finalist for this role. I got word the day before my birthday that I'll be receiving the official written job offer once all the background & reference checks come back in! Please know that you changed my life and I talk about it with anyone who will listen! I'll be listening to your episodes on starting a new job in the near future, and I'll always come back for any career advice you have to offer :)"

    📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy

    ☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss

    📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 

    💌  Follow us on Instagram

    💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resources

    www.interviewboss.com.au

    Interview Boss
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    ALL the flow on benefits of doing AMAZING in your job interview!

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    Disclaimer: Skip this ep if you're a perfectionist who is prone to panic and has already put in hours and hours of prep.

    🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Hay who bought us 6 coffees!

    "Emma and Sarah, I am so grateful for you! I trained and worked in a very 'traditional' field for a few years before going into a startup. I had always wanted to work in tech and never had the opportunity to find out if it was right for me. I loved it but realised through this career pivot what my true professional loves are and made the decision to return to my previous field with a tech focus. In previous roles, I was badly scarred by bullying and even (TW) assault, where both HR and managers told me that it was just 'something that happened in the industry' and I had to deal with it. I was made to feel worthless, and I truly believed I was. I'd also held two positions in two years, and I was so worried about how people saw me. When I started interviewing, I was really disheartened by how interviewers treated my 'unconventional' experience - they saw it as a poor choice. Some even suggested I would have to be on a lower salary because it didn't count as relevant work experience in their eyes! At first, I felt quite sorry for myself and wallowed, but then I found you. Your podcast helped me take ownership of my entire career trajectory and taught me to highlight how all of my work experience is not just transferable, but meaningful. I loved your episode about taking a 'dream role' off the pedestal; going into my interviews, this was an absolute game changer! It meant I could just focus on being myself and treating the interview like an opportunity to learn about the role and why I might like it, instead of treating it as a 'dream role' I needed to be perfect for. I'm happy to report I accepted a great role, and I'm going in with realistic expectations, eyes wide open but also excitement and happiness about the experience overall. I couldn't have done it without you."

    📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy

    ☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss

    📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 

    💌  Follow us on Instagram

    💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resources

    www.interviewboss.com.au

    Interview Boss
    enJuly 23, 2024

    Counsel for aspiring lawyers - with Career Big Sis Mel Storey!

    Counsel for aspiring lawyers - with Career Big Sis Mel Storey!

    This week, Sarah and Emma are joined by a very special guest, Mel Storey! She’s a tech in-house lawyer, but not just any in-house lawyer, she was 2023 In House Lawyer of the Year, she is the Podcast Host of Counsel, she’s your career big sis on Tiktok and an all round Thought Leader.

    We cover SO much in this episode with Mel, including clerkships and work experience while studying, the recruitment phase, whether the reputation of a law school matters and pro's and con's of being an in-house lawyer vs working in a firm.

    This episode is a MUST listen for anyone hoping to pursue, or currently in the legal field. BUT we guarantee there is a piece of wisdom in this episode for EVERY LISTENER, whether you have a legal background or not.

    🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Kendra who bought us 5 coffees!

    Hi Emma and Sarah! Y'all's podcast was a *GAME CHANGER* for my job search! Prior to finding your podcast, I was somewhat actively job hunting for about 3 years. My resume and experience were enough to have the interview door's open. But every single time- my in person interviews fell flat due to overthinking and rehearsing whatever answers other social media "experts" advised. Rehearsing over and over the "best" responses, like a script. I found your podcast at the best possible time! I was interviewing for a director level role in HR, with no prior direct experience in HR. One of the first podcasts I listened to- y'all gave the advice "want to know what you'll be asked during an interview? News flash- you can't predict what you'll be asked. The facade was lifted. I would answer each question moving forward with my "best bits", and how to be a story teller of my experiences. My "best bits" showed the interviewers the unique value I bring to the table. After an introductory conversation, the hiring leaders took a step back and completely changed the function of the role so that it aligned with the skillsets I have. In a sense, customizing a role so they could hire me. I greatly appreciate the enthusiasm, humor, and wisdom you share on every episode. I "graduated" about 6 months ago. At the time of accepting this director role, my salary went up 59%! And about a month ago, I received another raise due to industry competitiveness. My salary today is now 91% above what I was making 6 months ago in my last role where my skillsets were valued, but I wasn't. The interview process for this position was brutally long (4 months) with multiple rounds of interviews, but your podcast was like a warm cup of coffee to figuratively (and literally) fuel me. Thank you for all you continue to do! I've recommended your podcast to multiple friends and family members!"

    📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy

    ☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss

    📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 

    💌  Follow us on Instagram

    💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resources

    www.interviewboss.com.au

    How to find more of Mel's content:

    • Follow her on TikTok here
    • Listen to her podcast "Counsel" <a...
    Interview Boss
    enJuly 17, 2024

    How to GRACIOUSLY turn down a job offer WITHOUT burning the bridge!

    How to GRACIOUSLY turn down a job offer WITHOUT burning the bridge!

    One minute you're in the job seeking trenches, PRAYING you'll receive ANY offer and before you know it, you've been offered multiple opportunities all at once, and have to decide which to decline.

    Sound familiar? It's a conundrum we see ALL the time!

    In this week's episode, Sarah and Emma discuss how to gracefully turn down an offer or role.

    We discuss what this should look like, depending on what stage of the recruitment process you're in. Because pulling out of the race before you've even sat your interview is very different to pulling out after you've signed a contract.

    Side note: If you haven't already listened to our power move episode about juggling multiple offers. Click here to listen, and come back to this episode afterward!

    Goodluck and remember, having too many offers is a GREAT problem to have!

    🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Adam Gee who bought us 3 coffees!

    “Emma and Sarah, the real bosses!! I found your podcast while preparing for an interview for a Graphic Design Manager position. I listened to the entire "Prepare for your Interview" Playlist, and then some!! Your advice, confidence, and above all, your humor got me feeling fully prepared. I played my power song (Van Halen's 'Jump') and walked into the conference room with confidence. I aced the interview and got the job!! Now I am going through your "How to Resign" episodes so I can quit my current job with class 😎 I'm sharing your podcast with everyone I talk to. Cheers to you both and thank you for the amazing content!!”

    📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy

    ☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss

    📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 

    💌  Follow us on Instagram

    💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resources

    www.interviewboss.com.au

    Mentioned in this episode:

    New To the Podcast? Start Here!

    Episodes For Your Situation

    Interview Boss
    enJuly 10, 2024

    Help! Should I accept a short-term contract?

    Help! Should I accept a short-term contract?

    Join us as we unpack short-term contracts! In this week's episode Sarah and Emma discuss how they differ from permanent roles and the different types of short-term contracts from agency placements, to fixed-term gigs.

    We share some pro's and con's, like diverse experiences and maybe a higher paycheck, against cons like job insecurity and a lack of benefits.

    We also share our advice on what to keep in mind if you do take on a short-term contract, to ensure you're able to reap the rewards!

    🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Xuanmad who bought us 5 coffees!

    "I GOT THE JOB ! I can’t believe I’m finally writing these words. Coming out of uni, I accepted the first okay job offer I got, because I was terrified of ending up with nothing. First week in, and I knew this wasn’t it, but I decided to hold on and gain the experience. I found your podcast and started listening to it to prepare for the application and interview process. One year in, I was actually depressed. I’d break down crying in the bathroom multiple times a month, but I was feeling so worthless that applying for jobs seemed pointless: who would want to hire someone like me? Even though I was praised for my job, I felt like an absolute fraud. The only thing that kept me hoping was you two girls. Hearing your voices would soothe me and helped me believe that there was a better job for me out there, and that I would get it! At the start of 2024, I gave myself the goal of switching jobs before the end of the year. I had made a few changes to my lifestyle which helped with depression, and I felt ready to tackle that next step. I remade my resume using your advice, I networked using your advice, I prepared for interviews using your advice… I was going to make you proud! Two weeks ago, day of the third and final interview, I walked to their office feeling like a badass, listening to your breathing exercises, and I CRUSHED it. Well, at the time, I didn’t feel like it, but on the way out, the manager started talking about how great the food was at the office and how I’d appreciate all the lunch options available and that’s when I knew I had nailed it! The wait was a bit long (too long in my opinion), but I just got the call AND I HAVE THE JOB !!! You’re actually the fourth people I’m telling, after my boyfriend, mom and best friend. Now, I have to go back to the podcast and listen to the resignation episodes. Thanks to you for being the voice of hope in times of darkness, for helping me, for providing some Australian comfort in the depths of French winter, and for being absolutely amazing. It’s my turn to keep you caffeinated, so you can keep the content coming, so I can keep building my career (it’s the ciiiircle of jooobs!) Thanks again! Your Number 1 French Fan!"

    📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy

    ☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss

    📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 

    💌  Follow us on Instagram

    💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resources

    www.interviewboss.com.au

    Mentioned in this episode:

    New To the Podcast? Start Here!

    <a...

    Interview Boss
    enJuly 03, 2024